Lancaster, CA. July 28, 2011 — Local residents looking for ways to reduce their air conditioning bills and still stay cool this summer, should consider taking advantage of the City’s two Cool Centers. Senior residents will be able to enjoy air conditioning while viewing a discounted movie at Cinemark Movies 12; while all residents will be able to benefit from the refreshing cool air offered at the Lancaster National Soccer Center.

“These cool centers allow our residents to socialize and enjoy entertainment in an air conditioned venue, as opposed to being home alone in the heat, which is especially dangerous for seniors,” said Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris.

Seniors ages 62 and older are invited to “Beat the Heat” while enjoying a $1 movie at Cinemark Movies 12 from 11am to 5pm, whenever the temperature reading on weather.com is listed as more than 100 degrees for the City of Lancaster. The “Beat the Heat” discounted admission program is available through the end of September. Cinemark Movies 12 is located at 44790 Valley Central Way.

In addition, through October 15, residents can enjoy the Cool Center at the Lancaster National Soccer Center (located at 30th Street East and Avenue L). Residents are invited to drop in anytime from 10am to 5pm Monday through Friday. Board games and cards are available for all to enjoy, as well as crafts for the children. Water and light refreshments will be provided. Southern California Edison, which partners with the City to offer the Cool Center program, is also offering educational information on energy efficiency and other programs. Residents are encouraged to bring their friends and family along to socialize, watch television or just read a book in this cool, air conditioned environment. The center is open to all residents of Lancaster. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

To find out if a particular day is a Cinemark “Beat the Heat” day, residents can call City Hall at 661-723-6190. For theater information, contact Cinemark 12 at(800) 326-3264 ext. 1438. For information on the SCE program at the Soccer Center, you may contact the Lancaster Parks and Recreation Department at(661) 723-6077.